Where to Stay in Quito
Ecuador
|Pop. 2.8M
|4 neighborhoods covered
Quito at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Quito
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Take advantage of the cheap and efficient local buses (Trolebús and Metrobus) for longer distances, but be very aware of your belongings.
Getting Around
Download a transit app like Moovit or Google Maps for real-time bus routes and schedules; be prepared for crowded buses during peak hours.
Watch Out For
Pickpocketing in crowded areas (markets, buses, tourist sites).
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in tourist areas like the Historic Center and La Mariscal during the day. Exercise heightened awareness regarding your surroundings, avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night, and keep valuables secure.
Hidden Gems in Quito
Lesser-known spots the locals love
La Ronda
This charming cobblestone street in the historic center comes alive at night with artisan workshops, traditional music, and small restaurants serving local delicacies. It's a vibrant glimpse into Quito's cultural heritage.
Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal
FREEWhile known, it's often overlooked for bigger attractions. This market offers a fantastic array of handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs directly from artisans, providing a more authentic shopping experience than many tourist traps.
Parque Metropolitano Guanguilqui
FREEEscape the city bustle in this expansive green space offering incredible panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes. It's a favorite spot for locals to hike, picnic, and enjoy nature.
El Patio de las Comidas
A cluster of local eateries often found within or near markets, offering authentic and affordable Ecuadorian dishes. It's the perfect place to try traditional stews, empanadas, and juices, away from the tourist crowds.
Museo Alberto Mena Caamaño
Housed in an old colonial mansion, this museum showcases exquisite historical Ecuadorian art, including detailed wax figures depicting key moments in the country's history. It's a fascinating and often uncrowded look at the past.
Paseo del Teleférico
While the Teleférico itself is popular, many visitors don't explore the network of trails at the top. Hiking here provides breathtaking, unobstructed vistas of the city and the Andean highlands, a truly memorable experience.
What It Costs in Quito
Daily budget per person in USD
💡83% cheaper than London
USD 30/day
USD 70/day
USD 150/day
Where to Stay in Quito
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Plaza Grande5 min
- Basilica del Voto Nacional15 min
- La Ronda20 min
Pros
- +Incredible historical significance
- +Abundant cultural attractions
- +Very affordable
Cons
- -Can feel crowded
- -Some areas can feel less safe after dark
Top stays in Historic Center
Hotel Patio Andaluz
$$Charming hotel in a restored colonial mansion.
Hostal Colonial
$Budget-friendly option with a central location.
Casa Gangotena
$$$Luxurious boutique hotel on Plaza San Francisco with exceptional service.
The Secret Garden Quito
$Popular hostel known for its social atmosphere and rooftop views.
Best for
Walk to
- Plaza Foch5 min
- Parque El Ejido15 min
- La Carolina Park25 min
Pros
- +Abundant restaurants, bars, and clubs
- +Good access to public transport
- +Plenty of accommodation options
Cons
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Some areas feel overly touristy
Top stays in La Mariscal
JW Marriott Hotel Quito
$$$Upscale hotel with excellent amenities and service.
Hotel Reina Isabel
$$Comfortable hotel with a rooftop terrace and good location.
Hostel Blue House
$Well-rated hostel with a friendly atmosphere and good common areas.
Selina La Floresta
$$Trendy co-working and co-living space with a vibrant community feel.
Best for
Walk to
- La Floresta Market5 min
- Parque La Alameda20 min
- La Mariscal25 min
Pros
- +Unique independent shops and eateries
- +Relaxed and creative atmosphere
- +Less touristy than La Mariscal
Cons
- -Can be a bit spread out
- -Fewer major tourist attractions within immediate walking distance
Best for
Walk to
- Mirador de Guápulo5 min
- Monasterio de Guápulo10 min
Pros
- +Spectacular panoramic views of Quito
- +Peaceful and romantic atmosphere
- +Unique historical architecture
Cons
- -Steep terrain, not ideal for those with mobility issues
- -Limited dining and shopping options within the immediate area
- -Requires transport to reach most other attractions
Areas to be cautious
- Certain areas around the Central Market (Mercado Central) after dark.: Can become desolate and attract petty crime; stick to main, well-lit streets.
- Remote industrial or less developed outskirts.: Lack tourist infrastructure and can present safety concerns.
Insider tip: Take advantage of the cheap and efficient local buses (Trolebús and Metrobus) for longer distances, but be very aware of your belongings.
Safety in Quito
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in tourist areas like the Historic Center and La Mariscal during the day. Exercise heightened awareness regarding your surroundings, avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night, and keep valuables secure.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially in La Mariscal and the Historic Center. Avoid dark alleys and be cautious if you choose to explore less frequented neighborhoods after sunset.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Pickpocketing in crowded areas (markets, buses, tourist sites).
- 2Overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours, leading to inflated prices or distraction for theft.
- 3Fake police officers demanding fines on the spot.
Getting Around Quito
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxi: approx. 25-30 USD, 45-60 minutes. Airport bus (Aerotaxi): approx. 2 USD, 60-90 minutes to Quitumbe bus terminal, then connect to city transport. Uber/Cabify also available.
🎫
Day Pass
Not available for integrated systems; single rides are cheap.
Single: 0.35 USD (Trolebús/Metrobus), 0.50 USD (Metro).
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Cabify
📶
WiFi
Good25 Mbps
Public Transport
Trolebús (articulated buses on dedicated lanes), Metrobus (feeder buses), Quito Metro (underground rail).
Ride-share
Uber, Cabify. Approx. 3-6 USD for short city rides.
Transport Tip
Download a transit app like Moovit or Google Maps for real-time bus routes and schedules; be prepared for crowded buses during peak hours.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Cafes, restaurants, shopping malls, some public parks.
Coworking
Selina La Floresta (approx. 10-15 USD/day), Impact Hub Quito (approx. 15-20 USD/day).
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jul, Aug, Sep
Hotels & Accommodation in Quito
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Who Is Quito Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Provides an immersive introduction to Quito's rich history, culture, and colonial architecture.
Nightlife Enthusiasts
Offers the highest concentration of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to international tastes.
Culture Vultures
A hub for local art, independent galleries, unique boutiques, and a bohemian vibe.
Budget Backpackers
Abundant affordable hostels, cheap eats, and free or low-cost historical sites.
Romantic Couples
Offers stunning views, a peaceful atmosphere, and unique boutique accommodations.
Digital Nomads
Has a growing number of cafes with good Wi-Fi and co-working spaces in an artistic setting.
Quito on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About Quito
Quito (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈkito] ; Quechua: Kitu), officially San Francisco de Quito, is the capital and second-largest city of Ecuador, with an estimated population of 2.8 million in its metropolitan area. It is also the capital of the province of Pichincha. Quito is in a valley on the eastern slopes of Pichincha, an active stratovolcano in the Andes.
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Quito Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel